According to ESPN, the Cleveland Browns announced Wednesday morning that Brian Hoyer will start at quarterback over rookie Johnny Manziel to begin the 2014 season.

quote:"He was the clear leader from the beginning," coach Mike Pettine said in a statement. "We've maintained all along that if it was close, I would prefer to go with the more experienced player. Brian has done a great job in the meeting rooms and with his teammates on the practice field and in the locker room."

Hoyer started Monday's preseason game against the Washington Redskins, completing two of six passes for 16 yards. Manziel, the No. 22 pick in the draft, completed seven of 16 passes for 65 yards and a touchdown in the Browns' 24-23 loss.

Hoyer only has four starts over his career and they all came last season.